RAMNAGAR FORT

About Ramnagar Fort

Opening Hours: Open daily 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Prime Day & Hours: Weekends and weekends 10 AM - 12 PM

Suggested Duration: 2-3 days

Tickets: Free Entry

Nearest Railway Station: Ramnagar Railway Station, about 30 kilometers away

Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (IXJ), approximately 100 kilometres away.

Nearest Bus Stop: New Bus Stand Budgam, approximately 45 kilometres away

In the 19th century, Raja Suchet Singh constructed the Ramnagar Fort, which is an important historical landmark in Jammu. Situated 40 km from Udhampur on the left bank of the Kud River, it was the capital of Bandarlta State before Maharaja Ranjit Singh's reign brought it under Sikh control.

With the Kashmir tour pacakges here, you can witness the traditional Dogra-style architecture, arched entrances, and tall defensive walls. Near the Samadhi of Maharani, you can see where Suchet Singh's wife did sati after he died in 1844. Massive fortress walls, polygonal bastions, and entrances with pictures of Hanuman, Durga, and Ganesha are all elements of the fort. You can explore vaulted rooms and a central area that is used for storage inside. After being renovated in 1972, the Archaeological Survey of India now recognizes the fort as a protected monument.

Must-Try Experiences

1. Explore the Fort’s Defensive Architecture

You can walk through the huge stone walls, hexagonal bastions, and lookout points that are used to protect the fort. Stand in the turrets where troops used to watch over the area. You can see the deep moat that gave an extra layer of security and the high walls that were built to defend against attackers.

2. Visit the Intriguing Central Courtyard

Within the center courtyard of the fort, you can find old cells and vaulted chambers that were once used for storage and military purposes. Explore the stone floors and the architectural layout that reflects the fort's strategic planning. The well, always full of water, served as a vital resource for the troops stationed inside. Historical spots like this are often included in Kashmir honeymoon packages, adding a touch of cultural exploration to the romantic getaway.

3. See the Intricate Entrance Gate

Enjoy looking at the huge entry gate made of wood that is reinforced with iron and has carvings of Ganesha, Durga, Hanuman, and Bhairava on it. It was thought that these gods would guard the fort. Marvel at the beautiful work on the arch and try to picture how the fort used to be a fortress that could not be broken into.

4. Visit the Samadhi of Maharani

Within a short distance of the fort, you can reach the Samadhi of Maharani, which is a memorial to Raja Suchet Singh's wife who did sati. As a historical marker of this important event, the building demonstrates that the royal families of the area used to follow practices and customs.

5. Walk Along the Moat and Bridge

On the southeast side of the fort, cross the narrow stone path that used to be the only way to get in. Admire the remnants of the moat that kept the fort safe from attacks. This part shows the fort's defensive design and strategic position up close.

Ramnagar Fort Highlights

• Walk through Ramnagar's square-shaped fort, which has strong stone walls, polygonal bastions, and tall lookout towers that were once used for defense.
• Admire the well carved gateway, which is adorned with representations of Durga, Bhairava, Hanuman, and Ganesha, all of whom stand for divine presence and protection.
• Visit Raja Suchet Singh's wife's memorial, a historically significant location where she performed sati.
• Enter the storage spaces and basement rooms where supplies and cannonballs were originally kept for the fort's protection.
• Cross the thin stone bridge over the moat, which is meant to keep enemies out and protect the fort's internal structures.

How To Reach Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort Jammu is about 360 metres from Ramnagar centre. Thus, it will take you about 1 -2 minutes by heading  west toward Ramnagar Rd whether you drive a car or take a taxi or bike.

Best Time To Visit Ramnagar Fort

Peak Season (October to March)

• Weather Insights: Pleasant temperatures range between 5°C to 20°C.
• Things to Do: Explore the fort’s architecture, and walk through the courtyards.

Moderate Season (April to June)

• Weather Insights: Warm temperatures range between 20°C to 35°C, with dry heat.
• Things to Do: Observe fort inscriptions, explore the bastions, and enjoy panoramic views of Ramnagar town from elevated spots.

Low Season (July to September)

• Weather Insights: Humid temperatures with heavy rainshowers occasionally.
• Things to Do: Witness rain-soaked fort walls, experience fewer crowds, and enjoy lush green landscapes around the fort.

Ramnagar Fort Other Essential Information

Why Visit Ramnagar Fort? 

• The fort, which was built by Raja Suchet Singh, a general in Maharaja Ranjit Singh's army, was an important military installation in Jammu.
• Politically significant, the fort was the seat of power in the Bandralta kingdom before it was taken over by the Sikhs.
• The location is significant historically since it is where Raja Suchet Singh's wife committed sati, and her samadhi is still standing close by.
• Its high walls, enormous bastions, and flawless square layout set it apart from other forts and were intended for military defense and surveillance.
• By keeping aspects of both dynasties in its architecture and history, the fort illustrates the region's shift from Sikh to Dogra rule.

Know Before You Go

• Make sure your shoes are comfy as you will be walking on uneven ground and see many parts of the fort.
• Bring water with you because there are no food shops inside the fort.
• Go to the fort during the day to fully explore it, since there is little lighting inside.
• Stay on the paths that have been marked and do not climb up on the fort walls for your own safety.
• Bring an umbrella or raincoat with you if you go during the summer, because it often rains quickly.
• Carefully read signs and markings to learn about the historical importance of different areas.
• Help keep the fort's history alive by keeping it clean and free of litter.
• Avoid losing your things by keeping them safe, especially during busy tourist times.